Biology

Swellow is a large, dark blue bird Pokémon with a red breast and face. A crest of feathers sweeps back from the top of its head. A blue stripe separates the red markings on its head and chest, and it has a white underside. It has small, narrow eyes, a pointed, yellow beak, and red feet with black talons. Each foot has three forward-facing toes and one pointed backward. Two long, pointed feathers with red tips form its tail, and are an indication of good health when standing up straight.. Swellow's wings taper to a sharp point. An impressive dive-bomber, it will never miss its target. Additionally, it takes great pride in its glossy plumage, and often cleans the wings of other Swellow. It searches for warm meadows while in the air.

Pokédex entries

Swellow flies high above our heads, making graceful arcs in the sky. This Pokémon dives at a steep angle as soon as it spots its prey. The hapless prey is tightly grasped by Swellow's clawed feet, preventing escape.

Swellow flies high above our heads, making graceful arcs in the sky. This Pokémon dives at a steep angle as soon as it spots its prey. The hapless prey is tightly grasped by Swellow’s clawed feet, preventing escape.

Trivia

Swellow is the fastest non-legendary Normal-type Pokémon, with a Speed base stat of 125.

Origin

Swellow is based directly on swallows, specifically a barn swallow or welcome swallow. However, it shares characteristics with other types of birds as well. In terms of behavior, its predatory habits and incredible speed suggest inspiration from falcons, or perhaps the swallow-tailed kite. Its coloration, appearance, and crested head are similar to treeswifts, though its head also resembles that of a secretary bird. Swellow's Shiny colors of green, red and white, combined with its two long tail feathers, also resemble the Resplendent Quetzal.